Pain, pressure, or a strange feeling in the back, neck, jaw, or upper belly, or in one or both shoulders or arms.

Lightheadedness or sudden weakness.

A fast or irregular heartbeat.

The more of these symptoms you have, the more likely it is that you're having a heart attack. Chest pain or pressure is the most common symptom, but some people, especially women, may not notice it as much as other symptoms. You may not have chest pain at all but instead have shortness of breath, nausea, numbness, tingling, or a strange feeling in your chest or other areas.

If you have symptoms of a heart attack, callor other emergency services immediately. After you call , the operator may tell you to chew 1 adult-strength or 2 to 4 low-dose aspirin. Wait for an ambulance. Do not try to drive yourself.

By

Healthwise Staff

Primary Medical Reviewer

William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine

Specialist Medical Reviewer

David Messenger, MD

Last Revised

September 13, 2012

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